Plenty of false ideas about SAT scores can stress students out. One big misunderstanding is thinking a single SAT score determines a student’s entire future. In truth, SATs are just one piece of a bigger college application picture.

Some people think memorization is the only way to raise SAT scores. The test actually focuses more on reasoning and how well students can apply concepts. To boost scores, students need to grasp key ideas, practice, and master exam strategies.

Students sometimes assume taking the SAT again will always result in lower scores. That can happen, but a lot of students perform better on their next tries by fixing errors and improving how they prepare for the test.

There is also some misunderstanding about what makes an SAT score "good." What counts as good depends on the student’s goals and the universities they want to apply to. Comparing scores without understanding someone’s personal targets can create pressure that isn’t necessary.

By clearing up these false ideas, students can look at SAT scores in a way that lowers stress and lets them focus on getting better instead of feeling like they have to measure up to others.